Self-energised position switch has wireless link

Edited by the Engineeringtalk editorial team Apr 24, 2006

Steute is introducing the EEx 95 F, a self-energised position switch for explosion protection which requires neither cables nor batteries.

Switching devices incorporating wireless technology offer considerable benefits for the field of industrial automation, e.g with regard to simplified assembly or flexibility if a workplace has to be relocated or renovated.

In the future, users working in explosive areas will also be able to take advantage of these features as steute is currently introducing the EEx 95 F, a position switch for explosion protection which requires neither cables nor batteries.

This is made possible by an integrated energy generator which transforms the kinetic energy produced by the actuator into electrical energy.

The amount of energy thus produced might be small, but it is more than sufficient to transmit a radio signal to the receiver.

steute uses a low-energy signal standard for this, which has proved disturbance-free even in the rough ambient conditions of industrial production, with its many sources of radiation and signals.

At the same time, the low energy content of the signal means that there is no risk of explosion from this special wireless technology.

Installation of the wireless components requires no visual contact between the transmitter and the receiver.

Signal transmission is based on the innovative EnOcean radio technology.

Several systems can be operated without interference in one room - at distances of up to 30 metres inside production halls and up to 300 metres outside.

It is thus possible to install a wireless, self-energised EEx 95 F switch in explosive endangered areas, with a cheaper standard radio receiver (e.g WAGO series 789) being located in a switchbox outside the explosive endangered areas.

Doing away with both cables and an external energy supply means new freedom with regard to positioning the switches.

As no batteries are required either, it also means that the maintenance costs are lower than for other wireless devices to date.

steute is currently presenting the first ever energy-autarkic Ex switching device at the Hanover Fair - other series are to follow in the coming months.

An application for ATEX authorisation to cover the Ex zones 1 and 2, as well as 21 and 22, has been submitted.